I showed them a clip of Ramin singing The Music of the Night, and they responded by telling me how much better Gerard Butler is by saying that he's smoother and perfect for the role.
Angel of Music=Ramin
Old Chain Smoker=Gerard
They're probably used to a Phantom with an edgy, growly voice which I get because it does fit the kind of dark character he is, especially if you don't know what kind of voice the Phantom has classically always had.
Personally, I like Gerard's voice as the Phantom. But I also like Ramin, and clearly he's a better singer.